MotoGP introduces breathalyzer test

Alcohol consumption has been officially banned in MotoGP since 2004 but now organisers are planning a fresh way to guarantee the safety of their racers by implementing random breathalyzer tests on race weekends.

The FIM have approved the 2017 medical code that will select three participants for tests without prior notification, and a result of 0.10 grams of alcohol per litre of blood is the upper limit.

If that is surpassed, a further test is then to be carried out, a positive result seeing a full punishment dished out, potentially reaching a nine or 18 month suspension.

Any racer deciding to not appear for the test or refusing to do so will be automatically sanctioned.

While going to lengths not to threaten the traditional podium scene of spraying and drinking champagne, the FIM have stated that tests can occur any time from 12 hours before the race to 30 minutes after.